WINE NOT

MAGGIE O'MEARA

Who doesn’t love opening a bottle of wine to enjoy after a long day, to celebrate special occasions, or in the company of your friends and family? Wine can be a controversial topic, with rumors suggesting that drinking a glass of red wine a day is actually good for you. Well grab your corkscrew and glasses, because the rumors are true! Studies show that those who have the habit of daily moderate wine consumption do receive overall health benefits. It also has been shown to decrease the risk of stroke, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, and risk for all causes of death.

Red or White?

Red wine contains “polyphenols” which come primarily from the grape skins. These polyphenols have antioxidant abilities and are scavengers of free radicals. White wine does not use the skin of grapes, and therefore doesn’t have these same polyphenols. But if you prefer white wine, there are still a number of health benefits associated, such as protection against cancer and heart aging. Red wine does contain more antioxidants, but it also contains more sulfites. Sulfites are a preservative in wine that can irritate those who suffer from asthma or migraines. Whether or not you prefer red or white wine, try to choose a wine that is the least chemically altered and the most naturally processed. Scout & Cellar wines is collaborating with Optimist Made to bring you “clean-crafted” wines and can be found here: https://optimistmade.com/blogs/food-wine/scout-cellar-collaboration. Join the movement of drinking cleaner, one sip at a time!

The French

Wine is a big part of the European lifestyle, and the health benefits of wine have particularly been seen in France. In this country, there is a particularly low coronary heart incidence and this has been tied to their red wine drinking. The French people prefer to drink their wine in moderation throughout the week paired with a meal and in the company of others. The key to living like the French and receiving the health benefits of wine is through moderation! Over-drinking or binge-drinking can have health consequences and have the opposite effect as far as health benefits. The current recommendation for females is 1 drink per day and up to 2 drinks per day for males. 1 drink is considered a 5 oz glass of wine. To make your 5 oz of wine last longer, try adding sparkling water to make a refreshing wine spritzer! So relax and unwind, with a glass of wine, and know that it is good for you.

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